Skip to main content

Shinola to open a boutique hotel in Detroit

shinola hotel
Image used with permission by copyright holder
In a natural step for Detroit-based lifestyle brand Shinola, the label, along with Detroit real estate company Bedrock recently announced that it will open the first Shinola Hotel, which will be located at 1400 Woodward Avenue in Detroit. Don’t get too excited just yet — the hotel is scheduled to open in fall 2018.

Shinola Hotel will combine the Shinola sensibility of American craftsmanship with Bedrock’s urban revitalization. The hotel will have over 130 guest rooms, with Detroit-inspired design by Gachot Studios and the Detroit-based Kraemer Design Group. New York-based NoHo Hospitality Group was charged with developing an innovative food and beverage program for the hotel.

Recommended Videos

“We are excited about this venture because it presents a challenging creative exercise to create a boutique hotel concept that Detroit will be proud of. We’ve assembled best-in-class talent that will result in an experience which reflects the philosophy of the Shinola brand.” said Tom Kartsotis, founder, Shinola. “We are partnering with industry experts like Gachot Studios for interior design and help with real estate development, as well as NoHo Hospitality to guide the food and beverage programming. Josh Pickard, one of the NoHo Hospitality partners, grew up in Detroit so it all felt very organic.”

Over the past few years, Detroit has seen a number of new hotels pop up in the city. “While Detroit has seen the launch of new hotels over the last few years, we still see a gap in the boutique hotel market,” adds Dan Mullen, executive vice president, Bedrock. “The Shinola hotel will be like nothing else in Detroit and will be strategically located in the now burgeoning shopping district on Woodward Avenue. We know out of town visitors will appreciate the central location and unique experience the hotel will offer, while local Detroiters will want to stop in for a dinner or drink while shopping downtown.”

And of course, what hotel is complete without a food and beverage program that will turn it into one of the city’s hottest go-to destinations? “A great hotel provides something for everyone, we will create a diverse program to engage guests, and welcome and energize the community,” Christine Gachot, co-founder, Gachot Studios. “We look forward to activating the street level and getting people out walking, jumping from one venue to the next and exploring. We hope it will become a destination for those in and outside the city.”

We can’t wait to see what the Shinola Hotel will look like.

Ann Binlot
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Ann Binlot is a New York-based freelance writer who contributes to publications like The Economist, Wallpaper*, Monocle…
10 must-know solo travel tips for a stress-free adventure
How to make the most of your solo travel experience
person rolling luggage through airport

I’ll never forget my first solo trip. I couldn’t help but wonder, would I get lonely? Would I feel safe? But as soon as I stepped out into the world on my own, I realized how freeing solo travel could be. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, embrace spontaneity, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences. That said, traveling by yourself also comes with its challenges. There’s a learning curve, but it’s worth it. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are the solo travel tips I wish someone had shared with me before I packed my bags.
Solo travel tips

Solo travel doesn't have to be a daunting prospect, just follow this advice to make your trip the best it can be.
Research your destination thoroughly
Before you set off, do your homework. Dive into the culture, customs, and quirks of your destination. Learn phrases in the local language like "hello," "thank you," and "help" – mastering the local slang might just earn you a few smiles! You should also check travel advisories and scour reviews from other travelers. You’ll want to know which areas are safe, the best ways to get around, and if you’re traveling internationally, where your country’s embassy is (just in case).
Plan, but not too much
Have a bucket list of fun experiences you want to do? Great – but don’t pack your schedule tighter than your suitcase. Leave space for the unexpected, like a random street fair, a hidden cafe, or a spontaneous invite to explore a local spot. Flexibility can be where the magic happens in solo travel.
Pack light and smart
When packing, stick to versatile clothing, bring only the essentials, and use packing cubes to keep things organized. And don’t forget the essentials – a power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, and digital and physical copies of your important documents.
Stay connected
Before you go, ensure you have a reliable way to stay connected. This might mean purchasing a local SIM card, renting a portable Wi-Fi device, or arranging for an international data plan. Staying connected helps you navigate unfamiliar areas, keep in touch with loved ones, and access important information on the go. Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and currency converters can be lifesavers during your travels. Don’t forget to download offline maps and guides in case you lose internet access.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust
While solo travel is about independence, it’s always smart to let someone know your plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information with someone you trust. A quick “I’m safe and having a blast!” text can ease your loved ones’ nerves. Apps like Find My or WhatsApp location sharing can add an extra layer of safety.
Choose accommodations wisely
Your accommodation can make or break your trip. Look for highly rated places (especially those recommended by other solo travelers). Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for meeting people, while private Airbnb spots can offer quiet comfort.
Own the solo dining experience 
Eating alone? Bring a book, journal, or your phone to keep busy, or sit at the bar and strike up a chat. Joining food tours or cooking classes is another fun way to combine good eats with good company.
Stay safe
If you’re going to listen to one of these solo travel tips, pick this one! Safety should always be a top priority when you're on your own. Keep your head on a swivel, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it might just be. Consider keeping a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag and storing emergency cash in multiple locations. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for local emergency services saved on your phone.
Make friends (but set boundaries)
Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone 24/7. Join group tours, attend events, or use apps like Meetup to connect with locals and other travelers. Remember, always trust your gut when meeting new people, and don’t feel pressured to share personal details if you’re uncomfortable. 

Read more
After years of waiting, these European cities will finally be connected by train
Dreaming of visiting both Paris and Milan this year?
Inside of a building with brown walls, Milan, Italy

Are you planning a trip to both Milan and Paris this year? Your travel plans just got a major boost. Trenitalia France has announced the long-awaited return of its Paris-Milan train service, which will resume operations on April 1, 2025. The direct route, which passes through Turin, will once again connect the French and Italian cities, making it easier than ever to experience both iconic cities in one trip.

The service was suspended after a landslide near Maurienne in the French Alps on August 27, 2023, caused significant damage to the route. Now, after extensive repairs and months of anticipation, bookings are officially open, signaling the long-awaited revival of this beloved connection.
The details of the Paris-Milan train

Read more
Qantas made these changes to its frequent flyer program
Qantas makes changes to Frequent Flyer program
qantas frequent flyer program 787

 

Qantas has announced multiple changes to its Frequent Flyer program, with enhanced benefits across the board. Members can soon access additional premium cabin reward seats and accrue even more reward points on each flight. As part of the update, Qantas will raise the price of Classic Reward seats, which haven’t changed in six years.
Qantas will introduce the changes over the next 12 months

Read more